Tips to protect your business from robbery

Learn about theft deterrents, how to prepare your staff, and how to alert authorities.

Armed robbery is less common than burglary, but it is still a possible,
more dangerous threat to you, your employees, and your customers. Robbers tend to choose targets that have
cash readily available and loose security procedures. Even with the best precautions, robberies still
occur. Following are some simple tips that a business owner might take to help protect their employees and
business.

How Can Business Owners Protect Against Armed Robbery?

Employee training.
Don’t assume your employees will know what to do in a high-stress
situation. Be sure they know what to do in the event of a robbery. Training is an investment you make
in your employees that might save a life.

Money handling.
Find ways to reduce the amount at risk during a robbery. Meaning,
consider prohibiting transactions involving large bills during high-risk hours. Post this information
in public view as it might deter a would-be robber. High-risk hours for a robbery are nighttime,
low-customer traffic hours, and when most nearby businesses are closed.

Cash deposits.
Cash deposits to reduce the amount of money on hand can be done several
times a day, but it should be done at least once daily. Also, vary the time of day you make deposits or
use an armored car service. Between deposits, limit the amount of cash in the register. Keep excess
bills as well as all large bills in a deposit safe. If able, bolt your deposit safe to the floor in
another room.

Hold-up alarms and panic buttons.
These types of alarm systems are designed to notify
the authorities that a robbery is occurring or that one has occurred. Train employees to use the
system. Regularly maintain and test your system to ensure it’s functioning properly.

Closed circuit TV or video systems.
Video surveillance is good to have for two
reasons: it acts as a criminal deterrent as well as a means of identifying suspects, should criminals
breach or damage your property. Sometimes just seeing a camera in the corner is enough to change a
thief’s mind.

Access control.
A door buzzer is a relatively inexpensive way to increase your
business’s security without interfering with the flow of traffic. Combined with an intercom system and
reinforced door, a buzzer can provide additional safety.

The information in this article was obtained from various sources not associated with State Farm®. While we believe it to be reliable and accurate, we do not warrant the accuracy or reliability of the information. These suggestions are not a complete list of every loss control measure. The information is not intended to replace manuals or instructions provided by the manufacturer or the advice of a qualified professional. Nor is it intended to effect coverage under our policy. State Farm makes no guarantees of results from use of this information.